Charles Coleman Tomasiak

Honoring the extraordinary life of a true American patriot, Ret. US Army Capt. Charles "Chuck" Coleman Tomasiak, whose spirited journey on this earth began on December 24, 1962, in New Eagle, PA, and culminated with his untimely departure on December 26, 2024, in Charleroi, PA. Chuck's zest for life was evident to all who had the pleasure to cross paths with him, and his legacy is a beacon of hope, bravery, and unrelenting joy.

Chuck was the cherished son of Arlene (Dennis) Yerkey and the late Coleman Tomasiak, a brother who inspired strength and kindness through his deep bonds with his sisters, Sherry, Danielle and Denise. He shared a profound and enduring love with the mother of his children, Paola Tomasiak, of Milan, Italy, and two incredible children, Ryan and Nicole Tomasiak, who inherited their father's invincible spirit.

Educated with purpose and determination, Chuck earned a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. His academic achievements were only the starting point for a storied 33-year career in the Army, where he served valiantly in missions that spanned the globe from the heat of Operation Iraqi Freedom to the silent vigil of Operation Enduring Freedom.

After serving his country with distinction, Chuck honed his skills as a Grant Qualification Specialist for the Department of Energy, continuing to contribute to the nation's strength through diligence and expertise. But what truly defined Chuck was his unmistakable love for adventure and the great outdoors. He was an accomplished water skier, angler, and hunter, a man whose laughter echoed as much through the tranquility of nature as in the camaraderie around him.

Chuck's unwavering patriotism was matched only by the size of his heart. He volunteered with vigor, always the first to raise his hand to serve his community and nation, because for Chuck, love for his country was as natural as breathing.

In the wake of his passing, Chuck leaves his joyful spark with his fiancée, Luanna Croston, and all those who were fortunate enough to share in his incredible life's dance. His radiant energy will continue to motivate us to seize each day with passion, to cherish our freedom, and to live with the audacity of a man who embraced life's waves with enthusiasm and grace. Chuck Tomasiak's story is not one of a final sunset but an everlasting sunrise in the hearts of those he touched.

A private memorial service for Ret. U.S. Army Capt. Charles C. Tomasiak was held on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at the Fred L. Jenkins Chapel of Prayer. The service was officiated by Rev. Father Freddie D'Souza of St. John University Parish and included heartfelt tributes from family and friends who shared cherished memories of Chuck. Following the service, he was laid to rest with honor at the West Virginia National Cemetery, where the WV Army National Guard conducted graveside honors in recognition of his dedicated service to his country.